Vision sensor sees shapes, colors

Enhanced version of Omron Electronics’ ZFV-C Smart Sensor offers color sensing abilities that make it suitable for many industrial applications, including manufacturing, assembly, and packaging.

Schaumburg, IL— ZFV-C Smart Sensor from Omron Electronics is said to offer sensing capabilities close to human vision. New color sensing abilities allow the device to “see” images invisible to monochromatic sensors and make it more reliable for inspecting complex targets. Integrated color filters enable sensing of only selected colors when necessary to obtain a better image.

ZFV-C features a “teach-and-go” function using a color LCD and menu to reduce inspection setup to a few steps. Screen shows a real-time image for instant feedback. Eight functions are available, depending on the controller used. They include counting, pattern recognition, size verification, position, brightness, width, text verification, and hue (comparing sensed color to a referenced color). Snap-on system allows up to five sensors to be connected to one controller bus to perform five inspections in one pass.

Sensor is suited for a variety of industrial applications, including manufacturing, assembly, and packaging lines. It costs $2,300.

—Control Engineering Daily News Desk

Jeanine Katzel , senior editor